I will be applying for 2 LPN schools soon that start next Fall, and I am also working on pre-reqs for the RN program. However, as the LPN schools are either a lottery or grade-based, I feel like I have a chance of getting into the LPN school much sooner then the RN program.. (which is like a 2 year wait after you apply with all your pre-reqs done).
Just wanting to hear from folks if you were glad you did the LPN program first, or if you wished you just did the RN program?
One of the "pros" I can see is that I can work as an LPN and get experience while I get into a lpn-rn program.
I almost went the LPN route, then at the last minute, chose to go the BSN route. I wish I went ahead with my plan to become a LPN. I would have been a nurse by now and working while I worked on my BSN. I also would be in school PT instead of FT. Oh well, nothing I can do about it now.
I think its very cool to read that so many of us are happy with our decision to become LPNs first! Sometimes I don't understand why others are so quick to discourage someone from doing it this way.
Yes!! I have an uncle that suggested becoming an LPN first because they make the best RNs. And now I agree! There is a lot more hands on experience if you go the LPN then RN bridge route. For me, that's perfect because I learn best by doing and seeing things done. It's another good option if you want to work as a nurse while going through the RN bridge program. It takes the same amount of time to complete LPN then RN bridge as it would to go straight on to the RN program. I hope this helps!
I'm still in LVn school but I am very happy with my decision as I was able to start within a month of deciding to go LVN and am working on some prereqs online while I'm waiting
I'm glad I was an LPN first. Although it wasn't might first choice but as you said the wait lists are long. I have done alot with LPN. In the state that I'm in you are used just as an RN. I have been a nurse for a year and a half and have learned tons. I've worked telemetry in a hospital and love it. My only fear was I would be in a SNF. Although that is fine for those that love it I become too attached and love the fast pace. I am proud to be an LPN who is starting school this week in a BSN program. We all have to start somewhere!!!
I chose to complete the 1 year LPN program vs the 2-3 year RN program (including pre-req's). I had no experience in the healthcare field. I wanted to be sure that I enjoyed it before investing any more time/money into it. I graduated in July 06. Loved it! I will be graduating this May as an RN :wink2: I am glad that I chose the LPN route first. I work 1 day a month and during the holidays. Level 3 was horrendous, but being able to work even for one day, got my mind off of school. Also, an advantage is that having the hands on experience gave me much more confidence in clinicals. I was not nervous having the instructors hanging over my neck. They knew I was comfortable and allowed me to perform the duties how I was used to doing them at my place of employment. Another advantage is knowing my drugs really well. This was especially helpful for the pharm tests.
Very happy I became an LPN first. Ive been an LPN for 3 years and am currently in school for my RN. It is so much easier than it was in LPN school since I have so much clinical experience. Being an LPN first it a very good decision!
RNDreamer
1,237 Posts
I almost went the LPN route, then at the last minute, chose to go the BSN route. I wish I went ahead with my plan to become a LPN. I would have been a nurse by now and working while I worked on my BSN. I also would be in school PT instead of FT. Oh well, nothing I can do about it now.